Urgently

DUSHANBE, June 3, 2016, Asia-Plus – The European External Action Service (EEAS) on June 3 released a statement over Tajikistan's jailing of leading members and activists of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan.

Members of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan (IRPT) have been sentenced by the Supreme Court of Tajikistan: deputy leaders Saidumar Husaini and Mahmadali Hayit were sentenced to life imprisonment, while long prison sentences were given to eleven other members of the party.

The statement, in particular, says that the court proceedings were not transparent and violated the rights of the accused to a fair trial, which is not in line with Tajikistan’s commitments under international law.

“Clear evidence must be presented justifying the criminal charges brought against the defendants in connection with all sentences issued.

“The Supreme Court's judgments also risk having a damaging effect on the overall cohesion of Tajik society.

“Even in the pursuit of security operations, the fundamental freedoms of all Tajik citizens must be guaranteed and the rule of law must be upheld.”